The best-selling children’s book Harold and the Purple Crayon is hitting the big screen, and any age can enjoy this timeless story. The film hits theaters on August 2, and before its release, we got to chat with Benjamin Bottani, who plays Mel to learn more about his character, working with some incredible actors, and why you should watch the film.
Harold and the Purple Crayon is based on the 1955 children’s book of the same name by Crockett Johnson. Inside of his book, Harold can make anything come to life simply by drawing it. After he grows up and draws himself off the book’s pages and into the real world, he finds he has a lot to learn about life and it’ll take him and all of his friends to save the world when imagination falls into the wrong hands. You may recognize Zachary Levi who plays Harold from the film Shazam and as the voice Flynn Rider in Tangled. In addition to Zachary and Benjamin, the film also stars Lil Rey Howery, Zooey Deschanel, and more.
Benjamin began his acting career in theater and has since been featured in various commercials and shows. He was a guest star on Puppy Place on Apple TV, co-starred in the feature film Bromates, and played the lead role in The Velveteen Rabbit at the Rainbow Youth Theatre. Benjamin’s career is just beginning, and we can’t wait to see his acting journey flourish.
“During the audition process, I did a lot of research about [Harold and the Purple Crayon] and I read the book and I loved it. It’s a cute little story that teaches kids about creativity at a young age.”
Benjamin said when preparing for the role of Mel, he did a lot of research and even read the Harold and the Purple Crayon book. In the film, Mel has lost his father so Benjamin said he tried to find ways to connect to Mel’s emotional journey and find ways to relate to him.
“I had to work harder to figure out how to portray [someone who has lost somebody].”
We also had to ask Benjamin about working with the talented Zachary Levi, and he said he was super friendly and he loved working with him.
“I remember being super nervous to meet [Zachary Levi] but he was super friendly and I just loved working with him.”
No matter your age, Benjamin said Harold and the Purple Crayon is a film for anyone. It’s fun, it’s timeless, and you can learn a lot from it!
“This movie is not only fun but it’s for everyone. You get to bring your whole family.”
Thank you, Benjamin, for chatting with Young Entertainment! Make sure to follow him on his Instagram at @benjaminbottani. Make sure to watch the rest of the interview where we ask him about what he brought home from set, the funniest behind-the-scenes moments, and learn all about his firsts as an actor with a rapid fire question round. Like, comment, and subscribe to our channel for the latest news in young entertainment.
Consider this:
- When you are auditioning and there is available information out there on the story or your character, do research! Going into an audition prepared and knowledgeable about the role will give you more confidence.
- Find ways to relate to your character even if it takes more work! Also give yourself some grace when working through emotional scenes.
